After the somewhat improved but defeat at the derby last week Milan welcomes Alberto Gilardino and Palermo. Palermo have won two and tied one game and stand above Milan in the standings after three weeks. The disappointment of last week leaves Milan well off the pace in Serie A and the team needs all of wins, improvement and luck.

Honda’s disappointing performance at the derby may see him dropped in favour of Bonaventura playing behind the strikers. The two forwards are likely to remain the same with an outside chance that Balotelli, who did very well as a sub last week, getting as much or more minutes. With Bertolacci still not available Kucka, Montolivo and Poli seems likely starters in midfield. The back four should remain the same as Antonelli is not back either so De Sciglio gets to continue in his favoured left back role with Romagnoli, Zapata and Abate getting starts again. Mexes has not been picked for this match leaving Alex and Rodrigo Ely as the defensive backups.